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Hilo Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer
Helping Those Who Suffered Spine Injuries in Hilo, HI
Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are among the most devastating and life-altering injuries a person can experience. They often lead to long-term disabilities, extensive medical treatment, and significant emotional and financial burdens. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence in Hilo, Hawaii, Davis Levin Livingston is here to help. Our experienced legal team is dedicated to pursuing the compensation you deserve to ensure you have the resources needed for ongoing care and rehabilitation.
Call (808) 740-0633 or fill out our online contact form today to request a free consultation.
What is a Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs when trauma or damage affects the spinal cord, disrupting the communication between the brain and the body. The spinal cord, a bundle of nerves running through the vertebrae, controls motor function, sensation, and autonomic functions. Injuries to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the damage.
Complete vs. Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries:
- Complete Injury: No sensation or movement below the level of the injury.
- Incomplete Injury: Some motor or sensory function remains below the affected area.
The impact of a spinal cord injury can range from loss of mobility and bladder control to paralysis and chronic pain. Victims often face lifelong challenges that require extensive medical care, assistive devices, and therapy.
Common Causes of Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries
Traumatic spinal cord injuries typically result from sudden and forceful impacts that damage the vertebrae, ligaments, or spinal cord tissue. In Hilo and throughout Hawaii, some of the most common causes include:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents – Car, motorcycle, and truck accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries. The high impact of a collision can fracture vertebrae and compress or sever the spinal cord.
- Slip and Fall Accidents – Falls, particularly from significant heights or on hard surfaces, can lead to severe spinal cord injuries, especially among older adults.
- Diving and Water-Related Accidents – Diving into shallow water or experiencing an unexpected impact in ocean-related activities can cause neck and spine trauma.
- Sports and Recreational Injuries – High-impact sports such as football, surfing, and other athletic activities can result in sudden impacts that damage the spinal cord.
- Acts of Violence – Gunshot wounds, stabbings, and other acts of violence can penetrate the spinal cord and lead to paralysis.
Common Types of Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries
The type and severity of a spinal cord injury often depend on the force and location of the trauma. The most common types of traumatic SCIs include:
- Cervical Spinal Cord Injuries – Injuries to the cervical spine (C1-C7) can result in complete or partial paralysis of the arms, legs, and trunk, often referred to as quadriplegia.
- Thoracic Spinal Cord Injuries – Injuries in the thoracic region (T1-T12) typically affect the chest, abdominal muscles, and legs, often leading to paraplegia.
- Lumbar Spinal Cord Injuries – Damage to the lumbar spine (L1-L5) affects mobility in the lower limbs and may impair bladder and bowel control.
- Sacral Spinal Cord Injuries – Injuries to the sacral region (S1-S5) can impact bowel, bladder, and sexual function but typically do not cause significant loss of movement.
Long-Term Effects of Spinal Cord Injuries
A spinal cord injury often leads to lifelong complications that drastically affect a person’s quality of life. Victims may face not only physical limitations but also emotional and financial challenges.
Physical Effects:
- Loss of motor function or sensation below the injury site
- Chronic pain and muscle spasms
- Bowel and bladder dysfunction
- Respiratory and cardiovascular complications
- Increased risk of infections and pressure sores
Emotional and Psychological Impact:
- Depression and anxiety due to lifestyle changes
- Loss of independence and reduced quality of life
- Struggles with adjusting to new limitations
Financial and Social Consequences:
- Ongoing medical expenses for therapy, surgery, and assistive devices
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Home modifications and long-term caregiving needs
FAQs About Spinal Cord Injury Claims in Hawaii
Who is liable for my spinal cord injury?
Liability depends on the cause of the injury. For example, if a car accident caused your injury, the negligent driver may be responsible. In premises liability cases, property owners may be held accountable for unsafe conditions. An experienced Hilo spinal cord injury lawyer can help determine fault and pursue compensation.
What damages can I recover in a spinal cord injury claim?
Victims of spinal cord injuries can pursue compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
- Rehabilitation and assistive care
- Lost wages and diminished earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
How long do I have to file a spinal cord injury claim in Hawaii?
Hawaii’s statute of limitations generally allows two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, exceptions may apply depending on the circumstances, so it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible.
Do I need a lawyer to handle my spinal cord injury claim?
Yes. Spinal cord injury cases are complex and require extensive evidence, medical documentation, and expert testimony. An experienced spinal cord injury lawyer in Hilo can navigate the legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and maximize your compensation.
Can I still recover compensation if I am partially at fault?
Hawaii follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that if you are partially responsible for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. As long as you are less than 51% at fault, you may still be entitled to recover damages.
Why Choose Davis Levin Livingston for Your Spinal Cord Injury Case?
Our Hilo spinal cord injury attorney understand the devastating impact spinal cord injuries can have on victims and their families. We have a proven track record of securing substantial compensation for injured clients across Hawaii. We are committed to providing compassionate, results-driven representation to ensure you receive the justice and financial support you deserve.
Contact us today at (808) 740-0633 to let us help you!
Four Decades of Record Breaking Victories
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$104,000,000 Child Sex Abuse
We're proud to have secured a landmark $104 million settlement for victims of abuse against Kamehameha School. This ground-breaking case marks a significant victory for the victims, with the school agreeing to settle.
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$29,400,000 Medical Malpractice
Physicians at Tripler Army Medical Center failed to order a crucial test that would have detected a twisted gut in a 1-month-old baby, resulting in the loss of 95% of the baby's small intestine and leading to lifelong disability.
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$15,400,000 Wrongful Death
The state has agreed to a $15.4 million settlement in a civil lawsuit filed by the families of two hikers who fell to their deaths on a Kauai hiking trail in 2006.
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$15,000,000 Vacuum/Forceps Injury
The hospital improperly attempted to deliver a post-date baby using a traumatic second-stage vacuum extraction. This extraction and the delay in delivery resulted in permanent brain damage to the baby.
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$9,975,000 Brain Injury
The hospital's failure to monitor an infant's rising bilirubin levels led to bilirubin encephalopathy and kernicterus, resulting in severe and permanent brain damage. A settlement of $9,975,000 was obtained.
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$9,500,000 Medical Malpractice
Surgeons at Tripler Army Medical Center reattached the small intestine backward during gastric bypass surgery, leading to complications that ultimately resulted in the death of a 31-year-old Army wife and mother of three.
Why Davis Levin Livingston?
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Available by phone 24/7 & ready to help.
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Secured tens of millions of dollars on behalf of our clients.
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Highest malpractice judgment in U.S. history against a military hospital.
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Includes an experienced medical team including a nursing staff to answer your questions.
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Mark Davis and Mike Livingston have been recognized as some of the best lawyers in Hawaii.
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Resources available to advance your expenses; no cost or fees unless Davis Levin Livingston wins your case.
Dedicated Legal Counsel You Can Count On
Helping Families throughout hawaii for over 40 years
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"Professional, KIND, and understanding"
They are most professional, KIND, and understanding. Thank you Matt Winter for all your help.- Clare T. -
"We wouldn't have chosen any other team!"
Mathew Winter and the whole staff of Davis Levin Livingston guided us every step of the way and made sure we understood everything that was going on. They were always so welcoming and compassionate. Communication was never a problem and emails were answered super fast, especially when we had so many questions. They- Maariel -
"The absolute best firm in Hawaii. Compassion and professionalism at its best!"
Truly a wonderful experience with everyone at the firm. I can't thank you enough for helping provide closure for my family and me during this process. The absolute best firm in Hawaii. Compassion and professionalism at its best!- Daniel -
"After doing extensive research I knew that Davis Levin Livingston was the firm for me due to the success they have had in cases like mine."
After doing extensive research I knew that Davis Levin Livingston was the firm for me due to the success they have had in cases like mine. What surprised me was their personal touch. In the 3- Anthony
